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Expert tips and fun facts on protecting your car, home, motorcycle or RV from Allstate Auto InsuranceThu, 08 Dec 2016 23:06:57 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.6.166977242Renovation Rundown: What Are the Steps in a Home Renovation?https://blog.allstate.com/renovation-rundown-steps-renovation/
https://blog.allstate.com/renovation-rundown-steps-renovation/#respondThu, 01 Dec 2016 11:00:12 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=7045Some home renovations can run like a well-oiled machine. While not every renovation works in the exact same order, most follow a similar course. For example, you don’t want to close walls and paint, only to realize you need to add a new plumbing stack that requires going behind the wall again. So if you’re wondering what the steps are […]

]]>Some home renovations can run like a well-oiled machine. While not every renovation works in the exact same order, most follow a similar course. For example, you don’t want to close walls and paint, only to realize you need to add a new plumbing stack that requires going behind the wall again.

So if you’re wondering what the steps are in a renovation, here are 10 common steps to consider.

1. List Your Wishes

Think through how you want your home to look and function. You may want to consider writing down your top 10 priorities, says Jason Abrams, a real estate agent with Keller Williams. You can also look for inspiration in magazines, online or in furniture showrooms to help refine your ideas and priorities.

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3. Check with Your Insurance Agent

It may be a good idea to contact your insurance agent to help make sure you have adequate coverage in case of any renovation problems, says Sabine Schoenberg, author of “Kitchen Magic.” Once the upgrade is complete, you may also want to consider confirming with your agent that your current coverage is appropriate with the latest improvements.

4. Hire a Contractor

Research and select a contractor whom you feel comfortable with, says Zillow. Be sure to sign contracts that help define the scope of work and the process to potentially avoid or resolve any problems, adds Zillow.

5. Secure Permits and Order Materials

Typically required in many municipalities, permits can also be critical to helping avoid having to redo work. Make sure your contractor checks your municipality’s latest regulations, since inspection rules change and vary in different locations, says Leslie Markman-Stern at Leslie M. Stern Design, LTD.

Once you have the permits sorted out, you may also want to start ordering the necessary materials like lumber, drywall, new windows and doors, etc.

6. Start Demolition

Once all your materials arrive at the job site and have been inspected, it’s demolition time, says Debe Robinson at Kitchen Expressions Inc. If space is being added, then framing generally takes place. If walls within are being moved, it may be a good time to potentially install any new windows and doors, says Better Homes and Gardens.

7. Dig Deep

Generally, this is the time for critical work behind walls, below floors, and above ceilings — plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning rough-ins, subfloors, and insulation, says Better Homes and Gardens. Schoenberg likes a plumber to go first, followed by heating and air conditioning and then electrical. Next, patch, hang drywall, tape and sand for smooth exterior surfaces. “You don’t want to sand walls over a new granite countertop,” says Markman-Stern.

8. Paint, Install Flooring and Molding

Some contractors may want to install flooring, while others start this step with priming and then painting a first coat before the floor is installed (to help prevent paint getting on new flooring).

9. Install Cabinetry and Appliances

Now that walls and floors are in, the room begins to resemble its finished state. Typically, cabinets are installed next, with uppers going in before lower ones, says Tom Segal at Kaufman Segal Design. Templates are made for countertops with cutouts positioned for appliances and sinks. Faucets and recessed can trims are installed prior to the appliances.

10. Apply Finishing Touches

It’s time to add those last details and decorations — final painting and papering, backsplashes, floor sealing, light fixtures, hardware and any other touch-ups.

Once a renovation is complete, be sure to take a moment to enjoy your new surroundings, and, maybe even start dreaming of your next project.

]]>https://blog.allstate.com/renovation-rundown-steps-renovation/feed/070455 Easy Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter [VIDEO]https://blog.allstate.com/5-easy-ways-to-prepare-your-home-for-winter/
https://blog.allstate.com/5-easy-ways-to-prepare-your-home-for-winter/#respondWed, 30 Nov 2016 11:00:29 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=14199Before the first snowfall is here, watch as home maintenance expert See Jane Drill shares five ways to help get your home ready for winter.

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]]>https://blog.allstate.com/5-easy-ways-to-prepare-your-home-for-winter/feed/014199Quick Fix: Clean Your Glass Cooktop [GIF]https://blog.allstate.com/quick-fix-clean-your-glass-cooktop-injs/
https://blog.allstate.com/quick-fix-clean-your-glass-cooktop-injs/#respondTue, 01 Nov 2016 10:00:39 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=14043It happens to the best of us: You make a delicious meal on your glass cooktop, and when you return for cleanup, the mess seems to have glued itself on. But don’t panic. With some baking soda and dishwashing liquid, cleaning up can be much easier, according to Behind the Studio. Of the 1,035 American adults surveyed […]

]]>It happens to the best of us: You make a delicious meal on your glass cooktop, and when you return for cleanup, the mess seems to have glued itself on. But don’t panic. With some baking soda and dishwashing liquid, cleaning up can be much easier, according to Behind the Studio.

Of the 1,035 American adults surveyed for Allstate’s “It’s Not Just Stuff” survey in July 2016, 81 percent said they clean their home at least weekly. This quick tip may make at least one of those chores a little easier.

Step 1:Wipe off any excess debris.

Once your cooktop is fully cooled, use a dry paper towel to wipe up any easy-to-get mess, like crumbs.

Step 2: Cover the cooktop with baking soda.

Step 3: Dunk a rag into a bowl of warm water and dishwashing liquid.

Squeeze some dishwashing liquid (one swirl should do) into a mixing bowl with water that is warm but not boiling (you may want to test the water with one finger before dunking the rag, to help ensure it’s a safe temperature). Dunk one of your rags in the bowl (you’ll need a big enough rag to cover the affected area on your cooktop).

Step 4: Put the rag on the cooktop.

Wring the rag out about halfway, Behind the Studio recommends. Then lay it on top of the cooktop so the affected area is fully covered. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. (If the mess is particularly stubborn, you may want to leave it for 20 or 30 minutes.)

Step 5: Wipe the cooktop with the rag.

After sitting, the solution should have loosened the grime on your cooktop. Use the rag to wipe off the mess in a circular motion.

Step 6: Make it shine.

Wipe a dry rag over the cooktop for a finishing buff and shine.

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]]>https://blog.allstate.com/quick-fix-clean-your-glass-cooktop-injs/feed/014043Winter Prep: 5 Things Your Apartment Needshttps://blog.allstate.com/winter-prep-5-things-your-apartment-needs/
https://blog.allstate.com/winter-prep-5-things-your-apartment-needs/#respondWed, 19 Oct 2016 10:00:05 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=14011Winter can be a fun time of year. You can adorn your apartment with a few cozy throw blankets, sip some hot cocoa and enjoy some holiday-cheer-filled time with friends and family. There are, however, a few steps renters can take to help prepare for the less-than-lovable parts of winter, such as the cold, brisk […]

]]>Winter can be a fun time of year. You can adorn your apartment with a few cozy throw blankets, sip some hot cocoa and enjoy some holiday-cheer-filled time with friends and family. There are, however, a few steps renters can take to help prepare for the less-than-lovable parts of winter, such as the cold, brisk temperatures, dry air and muddy boots. Here are a few things you may need to be ready for the new season.

1. Draft Guards

Help keep the cold outdoor drafts from coming inside by using draft guards under all exterior doors. Draft guards can simply slide under the door or are placed against the bottom of a door frame. This may be useful if you live in an older building where door frames may have shifted over time, potentially allowing for gaps in between the bottom of the door and the floor. Insulating your exterior doors may help keep cold air from entering and warm air from escaping and you may also see some savings on your heating bill, too. In fact, according to the Department of Energy (DOE), homes built before 1950 may use about 60 percent more energy per square foot than homes built after 2000.

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2. Window Coverings

Windows can be another area for cold air to potentially get in and warm air to escape your apartment. According to the DOE, windows may account for 10 to 25 percent of your heating bill merely by letting heat out. You may want to consider temporarily insulating your windows for the winter with a window insulator kit you can find at your local hardware store. Make sure to ask your landlord for permission before doing so. The thin plastic coating may be applied directly to your windows and glass doors, making it barely visible, but it may help, says EnergyStar.gov.

Another great way to help keep warm air from escaping your apartment is by hanging some curtains made from a heavier fabric or layering curtains, and making sure to close those curtains and blinds at night. During the day, blinds can be left open to help allow the sun to naturally warm your apartment.

3. Rubber Doormat

You may look forward to the first snowfall of the season, but after being outside all day, it’s easy to potentially track in mud, salt, and snow. You may want to swap out your doormat with a sturdier version to wipe your feet on before you enter your apartment and potentially keep a second doormat in the entryway where you can store your boots when they’re not in use. This may help prevent the salt and melting snow from being tracked throughout your apartment.

4. Humidifier

Cold winter weather means you may also be dealing with drier-than-usual air. Balance the dryness in your place by using a humidifier that revives some humidity into the apartment, says Apartment Therapy. You may choose to have one for each room or simply one for your bedroom and use it while you sleep at night — your chapped lips and dry nose may thank you!

5. Winter Storm Emergency Kit

While keeping a basic emergency preparedness kit on hand is always a good idea, if you live in an area prone to snowstorms, you may also want to keep a separate winter storm emergency kit in your apartment. According to the American Red Cross, some items to include are a flashlight, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a multi-purpose tool, sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to de-ice walkways, and warm clothing.

Get a jump start on these items now and you’ll be ready to welcome winter and all that comes with it!

]]>The cool breezes of autumn mean winter is right around the corner. While you’re enjoying those crisp fall days, you may want to add winterizing your deck to your to-do list. Here are three ways to help keep your deck in tip-top shape throughout the winter months.

1. Clean Your Deck

Dirt, moisture and other summertime stains can sometimes affect the appearance and health of your deck. Regular cleaning between seasons — especially between summer and winter — may help save your deck from potential problems and help keep it looking great for years to come.

According to HGTV, use a cleaner specifically formulated for the type of deck you have. Deck cleaners can help eliminate dirt and grime and also help remove signs of aging and weathering. A cleaner may also prepare your deck with a new protective coating. Most cleaners come with an applicator that attaches to your garden hose so it can be easy to use.

If your deck is showing its age, you may want to consider stripping it and adding a new finish, says HomeAdvisor. You can add a new finish to both composite and wooden decks. It’s a good idea to consult a professional before you begin refinishing either deck material. Composite decks in particular are difficult to refinish and require special expertise, says HomeAdvisor.

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2. Store Your Furniture

Keeping your outdoor furniture out of the cold, wet weather of winter may help ensure it looks great for future cookouts. Patio furniture comes in a variety of weather-resistant materials, but it’s always a good idea to take some extra care. Consult BobVila.com for a few tips on how to help protect your specific type of furniture. Regardless of the type of patio furniture you have, make sure to move it indoors, if you can. Spare space in your shed or garage can be a perfect spot.

If you’re short on space, cover your furniture and place it along the back of your home. For extra protection, you can also elevate the legs of the furniture by placing wooden blocks underneath it, says TODAY. This will help the legs say out of the harsh weather.

3. Remove Your Plants and Planters

If you have any exotic, expensive or sensitive plants, bring them indoors. According to Apartment Therapy, it’s a good idea to store ceramic and terra cotta planters indoors to help avoid cracks. Other materials, like wood or plastic, may remain outdoors. If you have a garden shed or area to store materials, it’s not a bad idea to move smaller planters out of the weather — regardless of the material.

Keeping planters away from your deck can help you keep the surface clear of moisture-trapping debris. Also, planters may leave circular stains on your decking material if left in place long enough. Moving planters intermittently may help prevent ugly spots.

Your deck is an important part of your outdoor living space. With a little preparation and care, it can be in great shape and ready for you to enjoy when spring rolls back around.

]]>https://blog.allstate.com/3-ways-to-winterize-your-deck/feed/0138955 Home Warranty Myths Debunkedhttps://blog.allstate.com/5-home-warranty-myths-debunked/
https://blog.allstate.com/5-home-warranty-myths-debunked/#respondTue, 04 Oct 2016 10:00:42 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=13865While home warranties can be an additional level of protection for your home, some homeowners may have chosen not to purchase one and others may not even know what one is. If you’re wondering how a home warranty could help protect your home, here are five misconceptions and myths debunked. Myth #1: “I don’t even […]

]]>While home warranties can be an additional level of protection for your home, some homeowners may have chosen not to purchase one and others may not even know what one is. If you’re wondering how a home warranty could help protect your home, here are five misconceptions and myths debunked.

Myth #1: “I don’t even know what a home warranty is, so I probably don’t need one.”

The more you know about the home systems and appliances in your home that may be covered by a home warranty, the more you may likely appreciate the value. Home warranties usually cover big-ticket items, like your furnace, air conditioner, plumbing, electrical systems and appliances — some of the essential things you use on a daily basis. A home warranty may help cover the repair or replacement of covered items that break down due to normal wear and tear.

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Myth #2: “A home warranty is expensive; it’s not worth it.”

Have you ever thought about how much it would cost if you were to replace a major home system? According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of replacing a furnace may range from $2,298 to $5,550. Generally, a basic home warranty may cost you between $350 to $500 a year, says Realtor.com.

Myth #3: “I don’t need a home warranty, because I have all new appliances.”

Unfortunately, new items may break down, too. Without a warranty, you may be leaving yourself open to a potentially expensive repair on a new appliance.

Myth #4: “I maintain all my appliances and systems, so I would never need a home warranty.”

Breakdowns can happen unexpectedly, even to the most attentive homeowners. Routine maintenance can be a great thing and certainly helps, but it is no guarantee that things may not go wrong.

Myth #5: “I have homeowners insurance, so I don’t need a home warranty.”

This is a common misconception. Homeowners insurance and a home warranty are two separate things and offer different coverage. Homeowners insurance may cover things that happen due to an unexpected event, such as a fire or theft. But a home warranty is a service contract that provides for the repair or replacement of covered items when they break down due to normal wear and tear — things that can happen to just about any homeowner at some point.

Make sure to weigh all of the facts, and then decide if a home warranty may be right for you and your home.

]]>https://blog.allstate.com/5-home-warranty-myths-debunked/feed/013865How to Install a Curtain Rod [VIDEO]https://blog.allstate.com/how-to-install-curtain-rod/
https://blog.allstate.com/how-to-install-curtain-rod/#respondMon, 12 Sep 2016 10:00:35 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=13853Whether you’re hanging curtains for a new pop of color in your home or simply to have a little extra privacy, watch as home maintenance expert See Jane Drill shows how to install a curtain rod in your home.

]]>Whether you’re hanging curtains for a new pop of color in your home or simply to have a little extra privacy, watch as home maintenance expert See Jane Drill shows how to install a curtain rod in your home.

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]]>https://blog.allstate.com/how-to-install-curtain-rod/feed/013853New Homeowners: What to Do When an Appliance Breakshttps://blog.allstate.com/new-homeowners-what-to-do-when-appliance-breaks/
https://blog.allstate.com/new-homeowners-what-to-do-when-appliance-breaks/#respondWed, 10 Aug 2016 10:00:53 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=13766It’s a great feeling to be settled into your new home until the unavoidable happens — your first appliance or heating and cooling system breaks. No matter if it’s your refrigerator or furnace, the honeymoon period in your new abode may be over. But it’s OK, because sometimes unexpected things happen. Whether it’s a big problem […]

]]>It’s a great feeling to be settled into your new home until the unavoidable happens — your first appliance or heating and cooling system breaks. No matter if it’s your refrigerator or furnace, the honeymoon period in your new abode may be over. But it’s OK, because sometimes unexpected things happen. Whether it’s a big problem with a major system or a small repair to an appliance, here are steps to help get things running again.

Stay Calm

When your appliance or system breaks down in your new home, don’t panic. Make sure to rule out any obvious reasons. Is it a blown fuse or a cord that came unplugged? Are you getting power to the appliance? Is there a main safety switch that is in the “off” position?

If you’ve recently had work done in another area of your home, certain electrical or plumbing components may have been turned off for safety reasons. You may be able to simply flip a switch and get things running again.

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When It’s Time to Call a Professional

If your appliance still isn’t working. It might be time to call in a professional.

Before you find a professional on your own, it’s important to do your homework. First, check to see if your new home came with a home warranty. A home warranty is a service contract to help repair or replace certain systems or appliances in a home. You should be able to look at your original sales contract to see if the sale included a warranty and the name of the company. You can contact the warranty company and find out what sort of coverage came with your home.

When searching online for qualified professionals, read user reviews. There are many great online resources for customer reviews, which may help with your decision. Then, confirm anyone coming into your home for repair work is licensed and insured.

Lastly, trust your instincts. If you call to make an appointment and you don’t feel comfortable, consider moving on to someone else. And don’t forget word of mouth — find out who your neighbor used for a similar job and if they were pleased with the service.

Appliances can go on the fritz at any time. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared for the unexpected so you can get back to enjoying your new home.

]]>https://blog.allstate.com/new-homeowners-what-to-do-when-appliance-breaks/feed/0137665 Ways to Fix Up Your Basement on a Budgethttps://blog.allstate.com/5-ways-fix-up-basement-on-budget/
https://blog.allstate.com/5-ways-fix-up-basement-on-budget/#respondMon, 01 Aug 2016 10:00:08 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=13731From extra storage space to a workout area, renovated basements can provide some much needed function and comfort in your home. If you’re looking to fix up your basement, here are five ways to upgrade your space on a budget. 1. Cover the Walls Installing drywall to your basement’s exposed frame can be an easy way to […]

]]>From extra storage space to a workout area, renovated basements can provide some much needed function and comfort in your home. If you’re looking to fix up your basement, here are five ways to upgrade your space on a budget.

1. Cover the Walls

Installing drywall to your basement’s exposed frame can be an easy way to improve the look of your space. You can do the installation yourself, but it’s a good idea to hire a professional to help ensure a quality job. If your basement already has drywall, consider a fresh coat of paint. A new paint color can be an inexpensive way to spruce up the room.

2. Add More Lighting

New or additional lighting can make a big difference in a dark and unwelcoming basement. Standing lamps or track lighting can help enhance the look and functionality of your space. There are also battery-powered lighting options to help illuminate your basement without expensive electrical installations.

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3. Install Storage Solutions

Has your basement accumulated some clutter over the years? Organize the space by adding storage solutions. Instead of packing items into boxes, install shelving or cabinets and use plastic storage bins. Storage upgrades, whether simple or sophisticated, can help make your basement look less cluttered.

4. Get Some Area Rugs

Most unfinished basements have a concrete floor. Put down some area rugs to help make it more comfortable for your feet. Rugs can also help to cover up any stains, scratches or other blemishes on the floor.

5. Consider New Flooring

If your basement already has wall-to-wall carpeting or tile that’s looking a little worn-down, you may want to consider upgrading to new flooring. Keep in mind, the new flooring needs to be an option that can lay over concrete. Tile and low-priced carpeting can be great examples of budget-friendly flooring options.

Like with any renovation, you want to make sure the space is in working order. You don’t want to cover up any potential problems and have to undergo a major repair in the future. Here are some basement maintenance tips to keep in mind. If you’re unsure if your basement can handle a small upgrade, then check with a professional before starting any work.

With a little preplanning and renovating, you can spruce up your basement to help maximize its function without going over budget.

]]>https://blog.allstate.com/5-ways-fix-up-basement-on-budget/feed/013731Basement Maintenance 101: 5 Tips for Maintaining Your Basement [VIDEO]https://blog.allstate.com/basement-maintenance-101/
https://blog.allstate.com/basement-maintenance-101/#respondFri, 08 Jul 2016 10:00:12 +0000https://blog.allstate.com/?p=13656Does your home have a basement? If so, you may know there are regular checks you can perform to help monitor it for potential issues. This video walks you through some of the basics. But remember: If you suspect there’s a problem, or don’t feel comfortable performing a self-assessment, consider hiring a professional.